Abstract
Abstract Several studies have shown the psychological benefits of plants on people's health, emotions, and well-being. However, the effect of flowers on social relations, and particularly helping behavior, has never been tested. In three field studies, confederates held a bunch of flowers or a T-shirt, or they had nothing in their hands while walking in a shopping mall and accidentally dropping a card-holder on the floor (Study 1) or while waiting at a pedestrian crossing (Study 2). Results showed that more participants warned the confederates of their loss and more drivers stopped when the confederates held a bunch of flowers. This effect of the presence of flowers was found with both male and female participants. In Study 3, we compared the effect of a potted plant to that of flowers and observed a significant effect of flowers only. The positive emotions associated with the presence of flowers and their symbolism were used to explain our results. Key Words: Flowers—Relationships—Helping—Gender.
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